Instrumentation
What is a common cause of false level readings in a separator?
These can lead to poor level control and potential carryover.
What is the primary role of the FWKO (Free Water Knockout) on Ursa?
The FWKO separates produced fluids into oil, gas, and water, removing bulk water from the stream before further processing. This improves efficiency and protects downstream equipment.
What is the only letter that doesn’t appear in any U.S. state name?
The letter Q.
What is the most common cause of pump cavitation on Ursa?
Low suction pressure or restricted flow (plugged strainers, blocked lines) causing vapor bubbles to form and collapse, leading to damage, vibration, and noise.
What is the primary function of an MCC (Motor Control Center) on Ursa?
The MCC distributes electrical power to motors and equipment, providing control, protection (breakers/overloads), and isolation for systems like pumps, compressors, and fans.
What are the four main process variables?
The four key variables are:
These are often referred to as PTFL and are critical for maintaining process stability.
What is one key indicator of a separator upset?
These can impact compression systems and export quality.
How long does it take sunlight to reach Earth?
About 8 minutes and 20 seconds.
Why is proper lubrication critical for rotating equipment?
Lubrication reduces friction, heat, and wear. Poor lubrication leads to:
What is the first thing to verify when a motor will not start?
Never assume it’s an equipment failure until these are confirmed.
What is the difference between a sensor and a transmitter?
The transmitter communicates the measurement to the control system.
Why is compressor monitoring critical during operations?
Compressors are essential for gas export and gas lift. Monitoring prevents:
Failure can lead to production shutdowns or flaring.
What is the strongest muscle in the human body?
The jaw muscle (masseter), based on force.
What is one key sign of bearing failure?
Early detection prevents major equipment damage.
What is an overload trip and why does it occur?
An overload trip protects the motor from excessive current draw caused by:
It prevents overheating and motor damage.
What does a 4–20 mA signal represent?
It is a standard analog signal where:
Loss of signal (below 4 mA) can indicate instrument failure.
What is the purpose of gas lift on Ursa wells?
Gas lift injects gas into the wellbore to reduce hydrostatic pressure, allowing fluids to flow more efficiently to the surface and maintain production rates.
Why do we yawn?
Yawning helps cool the brain and increase alertness, though it’s not fully understood.
What can cause excessive vibration in compressors?
Vibration is often an early warning of mechanical failure.
What is the purpose of grounding in offshore electrical systems?
Grounding provides a safe path for fault current, reducing shock risk, preventing equipment damage, and helping protective devices trip quickly during faults.
What is a “fail-safe” position on a control valve?
It is the position (fail-open or fail-closed) a valve moves to when it loses air or power, designed to protect equipment and personnel.
Why is it important to monitor flowlines and subsea tiebacks?
To detect:
These issues can restrict flow or cause shutdowns.
What was the first object ever sold on eBay?
A broken laser pointer—sold as a collectible item in 1995.
What is “deadheading” a pump and why is it dangerous?
Deadheading occurs when a pump runs with no discharge flow. This causes:
What is a VFD (Variable Frequency Drive) and why is it used?
A VFD controls motor speed and torque by adjusting frequency and voltage. It is used to: